MIDDLEBURY — A caricature of the late game warden Denny Gaiotti and his story of a defiant skunk grace the cover of the newly released “Vermont Wild, Adventures of Fish & Game Wardens, Volume 5.”
A Whiting resident and game warden for 39 years, the cover art pays homage to the legendary law enforcement officer affectionately called “Bigfoot” by Addison County outdoorsmen. Looking for Gaiotti’s size-14 boot tracks was one way hunters would attempt to ascertain if the big lawman was nearby.
Gaiotti died earlier this year, and hundreds of friends gathered in Middlebury to honor him, including former and current game wardens from across the state. Before Gaiotti’s passing, author Megan Price met with him several times at his home to learn his stories.
“Vermont’s retired game wardens have some of the best stories I’ve ever heard,” the former award-winning reporter and state legislator said. “They lived outdoor adventure and danger every day. Good books demand great stories and game wardens have them. Their tales of outsmarting poachers and protecting wildlife are enjoyed by all ages and I want to save them.”
In addition to the memorable skunk, the new volume features some clever Lake Champlain problem solving by Gaiotti along with a little trick pulled on some fishermen. Stories from John Kapusta Sr. of Hardwick, Ken Denton and Deputy Warden Ken Ackermann, both of Cabot are also contained in the 288-page book.
“Vermont Wild” has twice earned a mention on the Publisher’s Weekly website and has been a best-selling local series since its inception.